Youngest F1 champion Antonelli to buy himself a car after historic 2026 title

Kimi Antonelli has set his sights on a new car as a reward for clinching the 2026 Formula 1 world championship, the 20-year-old Italian confirmed in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. Antonelli sealed the title at the Mexican Grand Prix last weekend, becoming the youngest champion in the sport’s history.

Despite admitting that his parents keep a careful watch on his spending, Antonelli said cars are the one area where he allows himself to splurge. “Let’s say that what my parents have to keep an eye on me about is cars, because there are a couple I’d really like to buy,” he said. “So I think I’ll treat myself to one for winning the title.”

The Mercedes driver painted a picture of a surprisingly modest lifestyle for a world champion. He told the Italian newspaper that most of his money goes on everyday essentials, with his racing simulator at home serving as his main indulgence. “I have my simulator at home, so I have fun with that,” he explained. “I don’t need to go shopping. I spend money on food, things for the house, petrol… and then I buy myself some new tracks to drive on the simulator.”

Antonelli credited his parents with instilling a grounded attitude toward money. “My parents have always tried to teach me the value of money, and now that I’m earning significant amounts, they want to make sure they know how I spend it and where,” he said. “But let’s say it’s a fairly easy job with me, because I’m not someone who has expensive hobbies.”

The new champion also has a more light-hearted celebration in mind. Antonelli revealed he intends to follow through on a promise to dye his hair, and is weighing up the timing for maximum effect. “I’ve got the cans! Now I just have to decide whether to do it this weekend or maybe wait until next week when I go to the factory in Brackley and have to speak in front of all the employees,” he said. “It would be fun to turn up there with dyed hair.”